Thiruvananthapuram: It seemed like a whole new world had finally unravelled in front of Abhirami after she successfully underwent the cochlear implant surgery on Wednesday. 

The five-year-old girl, born deaf in a tribal hamlet in Edamalakkudy, Idukki, can now embrace the beautiful chirping of birds and comprehend the genuine resonance of laughter. Abhirami underwent the surgery with the help of the fund provided by the Scheduled Tribes Development Department of the Kerala Government. 

Before leaving Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, Abhirami and her father expressed gratitude to K. Radhakrishnan, Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes, for his intervention in making the surgery possible. 

Radhakrishnan came across the girl during his visit to the tribal hamlet to inaugurate a road on May 29. The minister was intrigued by the girl's energy and enthusiasm as she danced and sang songs with her peers. However, when he tried to converse with her, she remained silent. Later, someone informed the minister that the child was deaf. When he tried to console her, she started to cry. After returning from the hamlet, the Minister allotted funds for her treatment. 

Later, she underwent treatment at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College and the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH). Further, the minister also made arrangements for her father, Sivan, and mother, Muthumarri, to stay with her in Thiruvananthapuram. 

The treatment ended on Wednesday morning. Later, the minister came to see her with a packet of chocolates, a dress, and a hearing aid kit. He added that the child will also receive treatment for speech therapy.